<p>Thank you everyone for your thoughtful comments on my previous thread regarding the tragic loss of my S’s good friend. We learned today that this young man gave his life in a successful attempt to prevent an even worse catastrophe. My son who is away at college is still devastated, but now he’s the one comforting me on the telephone. To the family and friends of this fine young man, we send our thoughts and prayers. To others, let your children know that you love them.</p>
<p>I can’t even imagine the grief I’d feel if he were my 19 year old. My heart goes out to the families of all the fallen, as well as those still in harms way.</p>
<p>oh nysmile
I’m on LI and I read the story in today’s Newsday.My heart goes out to your S and you and the young man’s family.Same age as my S.
I thought Newsday did a wonderful job with their coverage and I commend them for running his photo on the cover and all the photos accompanying the article.</p>
<p>I weep for this American hero. I weep for his family and loved ones left behind. Thank you so much for sharing this heroic story. Jordan will not be forgotten and is forever appreciated for his sacrifice. Such an inspiring young man.</p>
<p>I am almost in tears. My immense condolences, thoughts, prayers, thanks, and respect for the boy and his family. I am so thankful for our armed forces that keep this country safe…I have several friends whose family are in the armed forces, and knowing what they go through I carry nothing but the utmost respect for them. I hope this is the last death you (and your community) have to deal with for a long while. <3</p>
<p>Jordan arrived back in his hometown today. He had a procession from Delaware all the way back to here. The entire town plus many others came out to pay their respects to this brave 19 year old (nicest kid you could imagine). Shoulder to shoulder, young and old, lined the Main St. as the procession drove through. Our tears are of sorrow, pride, and joy all mixed together. Sorrow for his life cut short, pride in his service to our country, and joy in having known such a wonderful kid. Tonight the youth of the town will conduct their own memorial as they gather on the hill of the high school with candles–together sharing their sorrow as well as their memories. Tomorrow is the viewing and Monday he will be put to rest. </p>
<p>Once again, love your kids. Remind them that it’s the character of the person that will forever be remembered–not the name of the college they went to.</p>
<p>Thanks everyone for letting me share this experience. It’s my way of putting it out there for all to see so that we may use this reality check to help keep us focused on what truly matters in our lives. </p>
<p>He was laid to rest today. His memory will be with us forever. The youth of our community have been reminded of the importance of character----loyalty, friendship, integrity, determination, etc. Because of his brave sacrifice, 30 of his fellow marines can still tell their parents that they love them. He is a hero. More importantly, he was fine young man who always thought of others before himself. To the youth—find your purpose in life, work to your highest potential, and remind yourself that you can make a difference in this world.</p>
<p>It’s been about 6 months since Jordan gave his life. I’ve been thinking about him today. My younger son (college freshman) called to tell me that he gave a speech this week about Jordan in his Group Presentation Communication’s class. He suggested to the audience that they stop and think about the people in their lives–value each and every one of them because it may be the person that you least expect that ends up having a profound impact on your life.</p>
<p>nysmile, Thank you for posting this. Our country has lost so many heros in the Middle East, most of them brave young men like Jordan. People see the notices in the news but quickly forget the ultimate sacrfice that has been made and the impact of that loss.
My own S will commision in May '09 when he graduates from college. I pray for Jordan’s family and those of all the other fallen heros as well as my own S who will be headed into harm’s way in the months ahead.</p>
<p>We’ll keep your family and all of the military families in our thoughts. Whether one agrees or disagrees with our presence in the Middle East, we should all agree to hope and wish for the safety of our military troops.</p>
<p>2/7/09–Jordan was honored with the Navy Cross. It’s the second highest award for valor.<br>
In his memory, maybe we could all hug and/or call our kids today and let them know how much we love them and how proud we are of them.</p>
<p>Oh my Goodness–President Obama just told the story of Jordan and his sacrifice to the world today during his speech. Jordan–you’ll always be our hero.</p>